Reykjavik is the capital and largest city in Iceland with a population of around 120,000. It sits on the southern shore of Faxa Bay and is an excellent destination for a short break or long weekend from the UK.
The main international airport is Keflavik with is 50Km from the capital but is easily reached in 40/50 minutes by a frequent airport coach service. Indeed many travellers use Reykjavik as a stop over destination on flights between Europe and North America.
Compared with many European capitals Reykjavik is not only small but relatively compact which makes it a very walkable city if you want to avoid using public transport. It is also quite low rise, with very few really tall buildings, which gives it a big sky feel. Many of the buildings, especially in the old town, are characterful and colourful. At times you forget you are in a capital city and that’s how it should be, it make sit an excellent place to visit.
Just because its small doesn’t mean that there isn’t a lot to see and do. I spent a full day here and still had much left too see and do that I’m already thinking about another trip back.
Hallgrimskirkja. This iconic Icelandic church is visible for miles around, standing tall in the city. It was designed to resemble volcanic lava flow and took just over 40 years to build. You can take a lift to the top of the tower for stunning views of the city.
Parliament House. The Icelandic parliament is called the Albingi and is the oldest parliament in the world, dating back to 930. Originally held at Thingvellir, some 30 miles east of Reykjavik, it has been housed in this building since 1881.
The Sun Voyager. This sculpture, by Jon Gunnar Arnason, of a Viking ship is located on the waterfront close to the city centre. Its location is perfect set as it is with water and mountains framing its structure. There is some debate as to its true meaning but you cannot deny that it is a stunning piece of work that always has something different to offer as it catches the light at different times of day.
Harpa. Located close to the Sun Voyager, Harpa is a concert hall and conference centre which opened in 2011. Its design is very modern and futuristic and quite a contrast to some of the more traditional buildings in the city. The building catches the sun and shimmers during the day and its exterior is illuminated at night. It is possible to take a tour of the building and there are also cafés and restaurants.
The Settlement Exhibition. A fascinating excavation of a 10th century Viking longhouse discovered in 2001 is combined with modern multimedia displays which explain its construction and life at that time. Its an excellent way to spend an hour.
Reykjavik Museum of Photography. Located on the sixth floor of the City Library this small space plays host to exhibitions of the work of superb photographers. Well worth the very modest entry fee but do check what’s on first.
Have a hot dog. There are numerous outlets around the city selling hot dogs, a favourite snack of the locals. Baejarins Beztu cabins are said to do the best in town. They are very tasty, have them with everything on.
The Old Harbour. The old harbour of Reykjavik is in the process of regeneration and is a lovely place for a stroll. Not only does it afford some fantastic views and photo opportunities there are a growing number of cafés and restaurants. This is also the place to pick up whale watching and sea angling trips. It is also home to the Icelandair Hotel Reykjavik Marina, my base for three days.
Whales of Iceland. This consists of 23 man made, life size models of the various species of whale that can be found in Icelandic waters. It is quite remarkable and awe-inspiring to stand beneath, or alongside, some of these magnificent creatures of the ocean. A free audio guide is included with the entry fee and this is interesting and informative and takes you round the exhibition in around 3o minutes but you can pause and spend longer if you choose. The whole place is bathed in soft blue light and there is accompanying whale song. There is also a nice café and gift shop. Whales of Iceland website.
Aurora Reykjavik. This small exhibition gives a full explanation of why we see the Northern Lights and how best to capture them on film. There is also an interesting section detailing the significance of the display to the various cultures found in the Arctic. Best of all is the giant photo display of auroras captured at various Icelandic locations. There photography here is quite stunning and well worth the 30 or so minutes to view them all. A good little museum if you need to learn more about the aurora before you go to hopefully catch a display. Aurora Reykjavik website.
This is by no means a comprehensive list of things to do. I had to make decisions because I only had one free day in the city. You could easily spend 2 or 3 days here.